Afghanistan: International Trade Advisor
Country: Afghanistan
Closing date: 16 Sep 2013
Average salary up to US$120,000.00/annum plus allowances based on relevant qualifications and work experiences1. Organizational ContextMinistry of Foreign Affairs is the key ministry and a significant player in the sector of foreign policy and international relations. The ministry was first conceptualized some 86 years back during the Amani Era. The mandate of MOFA is to establish and maintain effective foreign relations with all countries of the world; and to advance the national interests of Afghanistan through the development and implementation of comprehensive foreign affairs policies. The Civilian Technical Assistance Program (CTAP) is an Afghan government program that aims to create stronger government institutions with more effective structures, efficient processes and skilled personnel. It assists Afghan government organizations to implement capacity development and performance improvement programs by providing them with skilled international technical experts and capacity development advisors. On behalf of The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, CTAP is now seeking to fill the position of International Trade Advisor to work in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Directorate-General for Economic Cooperation (DGEC). This position is open to international passport holders only: Afghan expatriates and nationals of regional countries are especially encouraged to apply.
- Position2.1 Nature and Scope of AssignmentThis assignment involves supporting a government-led planning and delivery institutional development program within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Under the supervision of the Director General of Economic Cooperation, the successful candidate will assist with the management of policies, change management, organizational change, communications, information flow and results analysis.The successful candidate will be expected to work through and with his/her Afghan national counterparts, and progressively transfer knowledge, skills and expertise to them. This position does not involve any type of management or line responsibilities under any circumstance.
2.2 Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the direct supervision of the Director-General for Economic Cooperation, the International Trade Advisor will provide technical support in capacity development of the DGEC to ensure adequate capacity is available in economic policy analysis, international trade negotiations, WTO regulations, economic partnership agreements, bilateral and multilateral trade protocols and other related issues.Key duties of the International Trade Advisor will include, but not be limited to, the following:• Within one month of assignment develop an action plan for the identified capacity development and change management processes reflected in the ToR • After comprehensive situation analysis and capacity assessment develop a comprehensive action plan for the department• Conduct a needs assessment/baseline assessment and develop a capacity building and training plan for the Directorate of Economic Cooperation in consultation with the General Director and in conjunction with the HR Department and any other relevant partners• Train relevant national counterparts on how to promote international trade at the regional and international levels • Train DGEC staff in conducting capacity assessments to identify functional gaps• Support DGEC in the formulation and establishment of new business functions after a thorough needs assessment • Develop comprehensive mechanisms for strengthening MOFA DGEC partnerships in trade and transit with neighboring countries• Develop a database and handbook for tracking bilateral and multilateral trade and transit protocols between Afghanistan and other countries• Develop mechanisms for coordination, facilitation and promotion of DGEC efforts to foster cooperation with the bilateral and multilateral trade partners• Provide technical support and guidance to DGEC staff on strategic planning to ensure clear understanding and smooth implementation of DGEC programs• Develop knowledge management systems on international trade for local staff, based on international and similar country best practices• Advise and train DGEC staff to ensure that all outputs of DGEC maintain the highest standard of quality and that reports are clear and objectives are based on comprehensive analysis• Support DGEC staff in performance and progress review and establish mechanisms to track the results; train national counterparts in implementation of the system• Train DGEC relevant staff in appropriate reporting and communication systems• Coach, mentor and train DGEC staff on any relevant international trade issues• Train DGEC staff in advocacy strategies for international trade
2.3 Deliverables:
The deliverables of the International Trade Advisor will be as follows:• An international trade policy, action plan and monitoring and evaluation framework developed• Skills in international trade transferred to government counterparts• A functional international trade policy analysis system complete with a communication and advocacy strategy established
2.4 Skills, Experience and Qualifications:
The successful candidate should have the following skills, experience and qualifications:• Master degree, preferably in Economics, Development Economics, International Trade or Business Administration is required• PhD in Development Economics, International Trade or related subject preferred• Minimum of 10 years experience in program management and policy development in the aforementioned areas. A minimum of five years in policy analysis, policy development, change management, etc.• Demonstrated history of delivering training, coaching and mentoring local counterparts is a plus• Excellent verbal and written communication skills• Previous experience in under-developed, insecure or post-conflict environment a plus• Fluency in Dari and/or Pashto is a strong plus
Afghan expatriates and nationals of countries in Afghanistan’s region are preferred for this position. Women are especially encouraged to apply.
How to apply:
Application should be completed online via www.ctapafghanistan.orgOnly short listed candidates whose background and experiences corresponds to the above criteria will be contacted for further consideration. CTAP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Females are highly encouraged to apply for CTAP’s positions.
